Vocal analyst believes in Thalente Mbatha, Bafana Bafana have their Paulinho - 'The Orlando Pirates star avails himself, box-to-box, he masters that position'

Orlando Pirates star Thalente Mbatha was part of the Bafana Bafana team that recently beat Lesotho 3-0 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

The 25-year-old has been on the rise since his move to the Soweto giants from a now-defunct SuperSport United.

Just like at Pirates, Mbatha has been massive for Bafana Bafana, always dictating the tempo and ensuring his presence is felt by the opponents.

Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye believes Mbatha is just like former Brazil international Paulinho, who dominated the department effectively during his active days.

He believes both the national team and Pirates have a gem.

“Can I please compliment this boy Thalente Mbatha, that boy has improved,” he said as quoted by iDiski Times.

“That boy looks lively; he avails himself, box-to-box, he masters that position. He reminds me of Paulinho, the Brazilian.

“He was good with box-to-box [midfield role]. That’s why they hit us with 5-0 [in a friendly match].

“The Brazilians play like us. I’m a fan of that type of football. There’s no hitting the ball in the air. They are skilful like us, technically very good, and hardly play with tall players," Khanye concluded. 

Another massive game beckons on Tuesday when Nigeria play South Africa in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier to be played in Free State Stadium.

Bafana Bafana top Group C with 16 points from seven games, and a win over the Super Eagles will be enough to see them through if Benin drops points against Lesotho.